A police officer has been shot during a confrontation with suspected livestock thieves in communities near Assin Manso in the Assin South District of the Central Region.
The officer, attached to the Assin South Police Command, sustained a gunshot wound to the leg during an operation targeting criminals accused of repeatedly stealing goats from residents.
Police say the incident occurred as officers responded to growing complaints from farmers about armed thieves terrorising communities and stealing livestock.
During the operation, four suspects were arrested while hiding in a nearby bush, and more than 40 goats believed to have been stolen were recovered.
Residents say the thefts have been a recurring nightmare.
Eyewitnesses told journalists that the criminals often storm communities armed with weapons, threatening livestock owners before making away with their animals.
“This is not the first time. They always come armed and take our goats by force,” one resident said.
The injured officer was rushed to hospital and is currently receiving treatment.
According to the Central North Regional Police Commander, ACP Abraham Aquaye, the officer is in stable condition.
Police have secured the recovered goats and are now working to identify their rightful owners.
The four suspects remain in custody, assisting investigations and are expected to appear before court soon.
Authorities say investigations are continuing as police intensify efforts to dismantle livestock theft networks operating in the area.
Source:Yaw Boagyan
